Pennsylvania Republican wants to be Trump's 'wingman'

2018-03-07T19:04:34Z2018-03-07T19:37:12Z

(AP Photo/Keith Srakocic). Republican Rick Saccone, center, talks with reporters before going on a tour at Range Resources Wednesday, March 7, 2018 in Canonsburg, Pa. Saccone is running against Democrat Conor Lamb in a special election being held on Ma...

By STEVE PEOPLESAssociated Press

CANONSBURG, Pa. (AP) - The Republican congressional candidate running in Pennsylvania's special election next week wants to be President Donald Trump's "wingman."

Republican state Rep. Rick Saccone embraced Trump as he faced reporters on Wednesday. He noted that the Republican president has been getting "beat up" recently.

Saccone said: "He needs help. He needs wingmen down there. I'm an old Air Force guy. I want to be one of his wingmen to help him implement that agenda."

Trump's approval rating nationally has hovered near record lows for much of his presidency. But he's viewed more favorably in the western Pennsylvania district, which includes more Republicans than Democrats.

Democrat Conor Lamb has downplayed his criticism of the president for much of the campaign.

Trump is scheduled to visit the area Saturday on Saccone's behalf.

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